Exodus 40:23

And he set the bread in order upon it before the LORD; as the LORD had commanded Moses.

And he set {H6187} the bread {H3899} in order {H6186} upon it before {H6440} the LORD {H3068}; as the LORD {H3068} had commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}.

He arranged a row of bread on it before ADONAI, as ADONAI had ordered Moshe.

He arranged the bread on it before the LORD, just as the LORD had commanded him.

And he set the bread in order upon it before Jehovah; as Jehovah commanded Moses.

Commentary

Exodus 40:23 describes a pivotal moment in the consecration of the Tabernacle, where Moses meticulously followed God's instructions for setting up the holy furnishings. Specifically, it details the arrangement of the showbread on the table of showbread, emphasizing obedience to divine command.

Context

This verse is part of the concluding section of the Book of Exodus, which culminates in the erection and consecration of the Tabernacle. After receiving detailed blueprints from God on Mount Sinai (starting in Exodus 25), Moses and the Israelites diligently worked to construct this portable sanctuary. Chapter 40 records the final acts of assembly and dedication, signifying God's readiness to dwell among His people. The setting of the showbread was one of the last steps in making the Holy Place ready for worship.

Key Themes

  • Divine Command and Obedience: The repeated phrase "as the LORD had commanded Moses" underscores the central theme of obedience. Moses' faithful execution of every detail, no matter how small, demonstrates the importance of adhering to God's precise instructions for worship and life. This meticulousness reflects Moses' faithfulness as a servant in God's house.
  • Symbolism of the Showbread: The showbread, also known as the "bread of the presence" (Hebrew: lechem panim), consisted of twelve loaves, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Set before the LORD perpetually (Leviticus 24:8), it symbolized God's constant provision for His people and their perpetual communion with Him. It was a tangible reminder of God's covenant faithfulness to sustain His chosen nation.
  • Holiness and Order: The act of setting the bread "in order" highlights the sanctity and precision required in approaching God. Every aspect of the Tabernacle and its services was designed to convey God's holy nature and the reverence due to Him. The ordered arrangement signifies that worship is not chaotic but structured and purposeful, reflecting the character of an orderly God.

Linguistic Insights

The term "showbread" comes from the Hebrew lechem panim (ΧœΦΆΧ—ΦΆΧ ׀ָּנִים), literally "bread of the face" or "bread of the presence." This emphasizes that the bread was continually before God's "face" or in His "presence," signifying unbroken communion and remembrance.

Practical Application

Exodus 40:23 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Importance of Obedience: Just as Moses meticulously followed God's commands for the Tabernacle, believers are called to obey God's Word in all areas of life. True worship and service stem from a heart devoted to doing God's will.
  • God's Faithful Provision: The showbread reminds us that God is our ultimate provider. He sustains us not only physically but also spiritually. This foreshadows Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be "the bread of life", offering eternal nourishment to those who believe in Him.
  • Reverence and Order in Worship: While we no longer worship in a physical Tabernacle, the principle of reverence and order in corporate and personal worship remains. Our approach to God should be with intentionality, respect, and a desire to honor Him in the way He has prescribed through His Word.
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Cross-References

  • Exodus 40:4

    And thou shalt bring in the table, and set in order the things that are to be set in order upon it; and thou shalt bring in the candlestick, and light the lamps thereof.

  • Exodus 25:30

    And thou shalt set upon the table shewbread before me alway.

  • Matthew 12:4

    How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?

  • Hebrews 9:2

    For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein [was] the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
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